Europe
Visit the Spartans, medieval Monemvasia and Diros caves
Live your myth with the Spartans, stay in Monemvasia, the only living castle-city in Europe, and follow the path to the underworld in Diros cave. This journey is akin to classical tours that explore historical marvels.
Day 1
Overnight to Monemvasia
Be the knight or princess of your childhood fairytales in the Byzantine rock island founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century, a breathtaking medieval tower town. Take the opportunity to explore this mystical stone-built settlement, nestled at the edge of a large rock by the sea, and immerse yourself in a unique medieval atmosphere!
Day 2
Overnight in Gytheio
Visit the cave of Diros, an almost painterly landscape untouched by human hands, where humidity, saltiness, and low lighting create a serene ambiance. The boat calmly crosses through this masterpiece sculpted by nature, showcasing white stalactites and stalagmites that adorn every corner, creating an unparalleled sight that takes your breath away. Gytheio, the port of the Spartans, is a charming and vibrant town filled with beautiful neoclassical buildings. Even though it’s on the mainland, it has a real “island vibe.” There’s plenty to do, from walking over to Cranae Island and strolling beside the long waterfront to enjoying the lovely nearby beaches or visiting some museums. With a wide variety of food, entertainment, and shopping found in Gytheio, it’s a perfect spot to unwind.
Day 3
Sparti - Mystras
Visit the mystical tower town of Mystras, located northwest of the city of Sparta, and let yourself be captivated by this destination’s medieval splendor. Discover the Palace of the Despots (Anaktora), the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Dimitrios, and the impressive Monasteries of Our Lady Pantánassa and Our Lady Perivleptos. Visualize in your mind’s eye Frankish princes and princesses living in palatial mansions, foreign delegations arriving with gifts, and peasants, pilgrims, or traders bustling through the streets. This is the place where Spartans moved after the Crusaders. In 1448, the last emperor of Byzantium, the Spartan Constantine XI Palaeologos, was crowned here. The first Byzantine emperor was from Rome, the great Constantine in 306 AD, and the last was Constantine from Sparta, who died in the walls of Constantinople in 1453 fighting the Ottomans, much like King Leonidas fought the Persians in 480 BC. This adventure is reminiscent of exploring Loire Valley castles, steeped in history and grandeur.
From Athens: 4-Days Classical Tour with Meteora
Prehistory, the classical period, the Roman domination, the Byzantine Empire,
Live your myth with the Spartans, stay in Monemvasia, the only living castle-city in Europe, and follow the path to the underworld in Diros cave. This journey is akin to classical tours that explore historical marvels.
Day 1
Overnight to Monemvasia
Be the knight or princess of your childhood fairytales in the Byzantine rock island founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century, a breathtaking medieval tower town. Take the opportunity to explore this mystical stone-built settlement, nestled at the edge of a large rock by the sea, and immerse yourself in a unique medieval atmosphere!
Day 2
Overnight in Gytheio
Visit the cave of Diros, an almost painterly landscape untouched by human hands, where humidity, saltiness, and low lighting create a serene ambiance. The boat calmly crosses through this masterpiece sculpted by nature, showcasing white stalactites and stalagmites that adorn every corner, creating an unparalleled sight that takes your breath away. Gytheio, the port of the Spartans, is a charming and vibrant town filled with beautiful neoclassical buildings. Even though it’s on the mainland, it has a real “island vibe.” There’s plenty to do, from walking over to Cranae Island and strolling beside the long waterfront to enjoying the lovely nearby beaches or visiting some museums. With a wide variety of food, entertainment, and shopping found in Gytheio, it’s a perfect spot to unwind.
Day 3
Sparti - Mystras
Visit the mystical tower town of Mystras, located northwest of the city of Sparta, and let yourself be captivated by this destination’s medieval splendor. Discover the Palace of the Despots (Anaktora), the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Dimitrios, and the impressive Monasteries of Our Lady Pantánassa and Our Lady Perivleptos. Visualize in your mind’s eye Frankish princes and princesses living in palatial mansions, foreign delegations arriving with gifts, and peasants, pilgrims, or traders bustling through the streets. This is the place where Spartans moved after the Crusaders. In 1448, the last emperor of Byzantium, the Spartan Constantine XI Palaeologos, was crowned here. The first Byzantine emperor was from Rome, the great Constantine in 306 AD, and the last was Constantine from Sparta, who died in the walls of Constantinople in 1453 fighting the Ottomans, much like King Leonidas fought the Persians in 480 BC. This adventure is reminiscent of exploring Loire Valley castles, steeped in history and grandeur.
